Abstract

Urban Local Bodies are recognised as third tier Government after the 74th Constitutional Amendment, 1992. The Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD), Government of India, has highlighted two major challenges currently being faced by the urban sector - (a) population and (ii) delivery of services. The urban population of the country is projected to increase from 28 per cent of the total population to about 38 per cent by 2026. Urban growth will account for two-thirds of the projected population increase. The current state of supply of core services in the urban areas is below norms. Only 70 per cent of urban households have access to piped water, only 74 per cent of urban households have access to latrines, only 23 per cent of sewage is treated; only 30 per cent of solid waste generated is treated prior to disposal. In addition to core services, other responsibilities like roads and citizen facilities also require investment.